Does stainless steel jewelry tarnish?
No, a 316L stainless steel piece of jewelry doesn't tarnish like brass or traditional gold plating. Materials, PVD coating, showering, the beach: everything you need to know.
Are you hesitant to wear your necklace in the shower or head to the beach with your bracelets? That's the question we get most often. The short answer: no, 316L stainless steel jewelry does not tarnish, provided you know a few simple tips.
The essentials in brief
316L stainless steel does not oxidize when in contact with water; PVD gold plating is much more resistant than traditional gold plating; only perfume, creams, and household products should be avoided. All Bamàs jewelry, except for 925 silver piercings, is made from this metal.
Why do some pieces of jewelry tarnish?
Jewelry tarnishes or turns green when its metal reacts with water, sweat, chlorine, or cosmetics. Brass and copper oxidize quickly, silver tarnishes when exposed to air, and on traditional gold-plated jewelry, the thin layer of gold eventually wears away, revealing the metal underneath.
Material comparison
| Material | Water and showering | Tarnishes? | Recommended care |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brass, copper | Not recommended | Yes, quickly | Remove before any contact with water |
| Traditional gold plating | Not recommended | The plating wears away | Avoid water and friction |
| 925 silver | Possible | Tarnishes in air | Polish with a silver cleaner |
| PVD gold-plated 316L stainless steel | Yes | No | Rinse with fresh water after the sea or pool |
What makes 316L stainless steel different
Zahara hoop earrings, Bamàs
316L is a high-quality stainless steel, often referred to as "surgical" steel. It is highly resistant to corrosion, including salt water and chlorinated water. Our jewelry is also nickel-free, the metal most often responsible for skin reactions. So Zahara hoop earrings worn every day will retain their color.
DiscoverWhat about the gold plating?
Our gold jewelry receives PVD gold plating: the gold metal is deposited in a vacuum and forms a layer that is much harder and more adherent than traditional gold plating. This is what allows you to wear gold jewelry every day without having to baby it.
Can you shower and swim with it?
Lorette necklace, Bamàs
Yes. Your Bamàs jewelry can go in the shower without any problem, and accompany you to the beach, like our Lorette necklace and its seashell and starfish charms. After swimming in the sea or pool, simply rinse them with fresh water then dry them with a soft cloth.
DiscoverThe only enemies to avoid: perfume, creams, hand sanitizer, and household products. It is best to apply them before putting on your jewelry.
Natural stones and pearls
Héloïse Lapis Lazuli Bracelet, Bamàs
The metal is resistant to everything, but natural stones, mother-of-pearl, and freshwater pearls are more delicate. On a piece of jewelry like the Héloïse bracelet, avoid leaving the stone submerged for long and wipe it after contact with water.
Discover"Super fast delivery, the jewelry is very beautiful."
— Maud D., Bamàs customer
Frequently asked questions
Is Bamàs jewelry nickel-free?
Yes. Our 316L stainless steel jewelry is nickel-free, and our piercings are made of 925 silver.
Can I go to the pool with my jewelry?
Yes. Simply rinse them with fresh water when you get out, then dry them with a soft cloth.
Is my jewelry likely to leave a green mark on me?
No. This phenomenon is caused by the oxidation of copper or brass; 316L stainless steel does not oxidize.
What should I do if my jewelry gets damaged?
All our jewelry comes with a 1-year warranty against manufacturing defects. Outside of the warranty, we also offer repairs: everything is explained on our FAQ & contact page.
Who are we?
Bamàs is a Parisian fine jewelry brand created in 2018 by Victoire. Our jewelry is designed in Paris and made in our partner workshops, in gold-plated 316L stainless steel and natural stones, to be worn every day.
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